The connection between addiction and the brain is both complex and fascinating. While for many people, addiction happens as a result of attempting to self-medicate a mental health condition, for others substance abuse and addiction can cause a complete rewiring of their brain to the point where their brain is convinced that it can not perform without the illicit substance or substances.
Since the chemistry of the brain is altered during addiction, a major component of addiction recovery is essentially to rewire the brain so that it no longer thinks that it needs drugs and/or alcohol to function.
This process is easier said than done though. After all, you can’t just reprogram your brain with the snap of a finger.
So, how long to rewire the brain from addiction you may ask? Well, keep reading to not only get the answer to that but also to learn more about the science behind it as well as you or a loved one can get help at Agape Treatment.
Brain Changes Caused by Addiction
Addiction affects multiple areas of the brain, particularly the areas related to and in control of reward, motivation, and decision-making.
When you ingest an addictive substance, whether it be prescription drugs, illicit drugs, or alcohol, it sends a rush of dopamine to the brain, alerting the brain that what you just took is something that is good and that it likes. At the same time, since the substance causes a rush of dopamine, the brain doesn’t have to release as much of its own. Over time, this causes the brain to not be able to produce as much dopamine on its own, thus becoming reliant on the substance to do the job for it.
Eventually, the brain becomes so dependent on the substance or substances that it can no longer function without the substance, leading to a seemingly endless cycle of use, abuse, and addiction.
What Does It Mean to Rewire the Brain from Addiction?
In order to reverse these effects, the brain has to essentially be rewired so it no longer thinks that it needs these substances to function.
While you will see that term, rewiring the brain throughout this blog, what it is actually referring to is the process of reversing the damage previously done by the addictive substances and restoring normal brain function.
This is done by strengthening the neural pathways that support healthy behaviors thanks, in large part to neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections.
While it won’t happen overnight, with consistent effort and the right strategies, the brain can gradually recover and adapt to a substance-free life.
The Science Behind Neuroplasticity and Recovery
So, how exactly does this all work?
Well, after you have stopped using drugs or alcohol and the brain gets over the shock of it, the brain will begin to adapt by forming new connections and repairing damaged neural circuits. This, as we mentioned above, is what’s known as neuroplasticity, or the brain’s ability to change in response to experiences, learning, and environmental factors.
How Long Does It Take to Heal the Brain After Addiction?
How long can something like this take? Well, that depends greatly on factors such as the severity of the addiction, how long you were addicted, and other genetic and biological factors.
That being said, you may begin to start seeing results within the first 90 days of starting the overall process. In fact, here’s a general breakdown of what you may expect:
- First Few Weeks – Withdrawal symptoms subside and brain chemistry begins to stabilize.
- 3 to 6 Months – Brain function starts to improve, particularly in areas related to impulse control and emotional regulation.
- 1 Year and Beyond – Neuroplasticity continues, with long-term improvements in cognitive function, emotional stability, and overall well-being.
Like we mentioned, this isn’t something that happens overnight. However, if you put in the effort, over time, you can restore your brain to how it functioned before you suffered from substance abuse and addiction.
Factors That Influence Brain Recovery Time
We mentioned that the timeline can vary from person to person based on a variety of different factors. Let’s take a look at some of the more common factors:
Type of Substance
Certain substances of abuse, such as opioids, cause more severe brain damage than others, thus creating a longer recovery time.
Duration
As you can imagine, the longer you are addicted to a substance, the longer it takes to recover.
Age and Genetics
Younger individuals may experience faster recovery due to higher neuroplasticity, while genetic predisposition can impact healing.
Overall Health
The healthier you are, the faster you may be able to rebound and recover from addiction. In addition, proper nutrition, exercise, and mental health support can also accelerate brain recovery.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Brain Changes in Addiction Recovery
Brain healing and recovery is both a short and long-term process.
In the early stages, the main goal is to get through withdrawal symptoms and cravings that are caused by the brain rebelling since it can no longer get what it perceives that it needs to function properly. This process can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks and usually takes place during the detox portion of treatment.
Long-term, it is all about sustainability. Recovery is a lifelong journey and so is brain health. Cravings and triggers can pop up even after treatment has been completed, however, not succumbing to these temptations can help preserve long-term brain health and not slip back into a pattern of abuse and addiction.
The Role of Detox in Starting the Brain-Rewiring Process
Detox is not just the first step in rewiring the brain but without detox, treatment and recovery can not truly begin.
Detoxing is done in order to rid the body and brain of the harmful substances that are in it so the healing process can begin. As we mentioned, during this time, the brain will rebel as it craves a substance or substances that it can no longer have that it thinks it needs to function. This happens in the form of withdrawal symptoms.
Depending on the substance or substances of abuse, the severity of the addiction, and the duration, these withdrawal symptoms can range from uncomfortable to dangerous and even potentially deadly if not properly monitored. That’s why detoxing should be done under the care and supervision of trained medical professionals.
By undergoing medical detox, medications can be administered if needed in order to treat or alleviate some of the more severe withdrawal symptoms.
How Therapy Helps Rewire the Brain from Addiction?
Once detox has been completed then treatment can begin. A major component of treatment is therapy and for good reason. Therapy plays an integral part in continuing to rewire the brain through reflection and introspection.
Through the use of psychotherapy such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), therapists and counselors can get to the bottom of what caused the person’s addiction in the first place. From there, they can work on more healthy ways to address these triggers moving forward without the use of drugs or alcohol.
As the brain adapts to these new techniques, it can continue the process of recognizing and understanding that it no longer needs substances of abuse to function.
The Impact of Healthy Habits on Brain Recovery
Adopting healthy habits significantly supports the brain’s ability to heal from addiction. This includes:
- Regular Sleep – Sleep helps regulate neurotransmitters and supports cognitive function.
- Stress Management – Reducing stress through mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation techniques aids brain recovery.
- Positive Social Connections – Support from friends, family, and recovery groups reinforces healthy behaviors and reduces isolation.
Nutrition and Brain Healing: Supporting Neuroplasticity
There’s also a diet and nutritional component to brain health and recovery. Nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and amino acids support neuroplasticity and neurotransmitter balance. A balanced diet with whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats can improve mood, cognitive function, and overall brain health during recovery.
Does Exercise Speed Up Brain Recovery from Addiction?
Exercise is not only something that can improve our overall health and well-being but, for those in recovery, it can also help enhance neuroplasticity, reduce stress, and improve mood, all things that promote overall brain recovery.
Since physical activity increases dopamine production naturally, the brain can return to a sense of normalcy as it relates to dopamine release without drugs or alcohol. Activities like yoga, running, and strength training can contribute to long-term brain health and reinforce a positive lifestyle.
How Agape Treatment Supports Brain Healing During Recovery?
Rewiring the brain from addiction is a gradual process that requires time, effort, and the right support system. While recovery timelines vary, the brain can heal through the adoption of healthy habits as well as other therapeutic methods.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse or addiction, contact us today. We want to help you heal your brain so that you can go on to live a happy, healthy, and sober life.
Stephanie Robilio is an accomplished Clinical Director at Agape Behavioral Healthcare. With a Master of Social Work degree, LCSW license, and extensive training in Rapid Resolution Therapy under her belt, she brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Her unique combination of education and experience allows her to provide exceptional care to clients and lead her team with confidence. Stephanie’s joy comes from witnessing the moments when her patients creatively connect the dots and bravely move toward reclaiming their power. Her purpose is to help individuals understand their past so they can create a future full of hope, growth, and success. Stephanie attributes a large portion of her success to the supportive culture and strong sense of community fostered by the Agape team.
